Unmask the performance culture to embrace God’s unique path for you. | episode 257 with Nicole Jacobsmeyer

Have you ever struggled with comparison, performance, relationships, or the desire to be someone else? Have you ever felt lonely and misunderstood? I sure have. Which is why I am so happy to be joined by my dear friend Nicole Jacobsmeyer today. Nicole and I have had countless conversations this past year as we have sought to deepen our experience and understanding of humility, comparison, suffering, pain, faith, perseverance in Christ, self-awareness, discipline, and the spirit of performance. So, today we are here to invite you into the dance of surrender to discover the attractiveness of true worship.

listen here: https://www.podcastics.com/episode/262628/link/ 

In this episode, Nicole and I embark on a beautiful journey of self-reflection, vulnerability, and biblical insight that aims to leave you inspired and encouraged, and reminds you that you are not alone. We explore the intricate dance between our actions and our motives. Nicole and I dive into the question of why we engage in all our various activities. Are we doing them to show off or to offer praise? We reflect on the concept of sacrificial worship and its presence in our everyday actions.

The journey of faith is not always easy, and we all face seasons of doubt and questioning. Nicole shares her personal experience of pain, evil, and suffering, and the impact it had on her view of God. We discuss how she embarked on a journey to understand God's character through the lens of her own suffering. Through it all, she discovered the privilege of suffering with and for Christ.

But our conversation doesn't stop there. We go further, exploring the impact of social media and the role it plays in our lives. Nicole shares how she had to set boundaries with social media, questioning whether it is truly necessary to be a part of it. We delve into the motives behind our posts and the need for authenticity. Are our online lives aligned with our offline selves? Do our loved ones and colleagues affirm the person we present online?

This candid discussion between two friends, who have journeyed together on various topics over the past year, serves as a heartfelt invitation to all those struggling with comparison, performance, and the desire to be someone else. Join us as we challenge the prevailing narratives of comparison, performance, and the prosperity gospel. We uncover the truth that genuine kindness, love, and grace come from Jesus and our identity in Him, not from our achievements or striving. We discuss the importance of a personal relationship with Christ rather than being driven by materialistic prizes or external measures of success.

Throughout our conversation, one message shines through - our purpose as Christians is not in what we do, but in the Person we serve, who is the Lord. We explore surrendering to God and the beauty of walking humbly and serving others.

So, if you've ever struggled with comparison, performance, relationships, or the desire to be someone else, this episode is for you. Join us as we dive deep into these topics and seek to uncover the true flavors of the gospel in our lives. Let’s dive together into this insightful and thought-provoking conversation with Nicole Jacobsmeyer, right here on Gospel Spice.

May you be encouraged, inspired, and filled with the joy of knowing that God is always by your side, carrying you through the highs and lows of life's dance.

MORE ABOUT NICOLE

Meet her here: https://www.nicolejacobsmeyer.com/

Hi! I’m Nicole and I am so happy you found my little space on the internet. Make sure you find me on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter so I can get to know you!

A little bit about me…

Besides my relationship with Christ, the most important people in my life are: my husband Andrew, and our 4 kiddos! I love people, comfy clothes, chocolate chips cookies, being a mom, watching my kids play sports, writing and speaking, and a good cup of tea.

Since becoming a mom almost 9 years ago, my life mantra has been: Embrace the Chaos! With a husband in the medical field, four little kids, and lots of moves over the years, I needed an outlet to write. The Embracing Chaos blog was started in 2016 and four years later, I launched nicolejacobsmeyer.com as my author hub!

When it comes to ministry outside of the home, I have a passion for helping and equipping women to stand firm, walk faithfully, and live full of joy regardless of our circumstances. I know how difficult it is to do that, but you are not alone in your pain. Praise the Lord He is walking with us in every season.

In other HUGE news, my first book came out October 2022 and the companion workbook, Discover Purpose in Pain, came out March 2023! I am overjoyed that these continue to reach those who are dealing with pain, trauma, heartbreak and suffering. I’m right there with you friend. Let’s allow the Lord to restore our joy this year!